Latest Update from Rep. Rouzer...

Dear John,

As a nation, we pause on Veterans Day, November 11, to pay tribute to the millions of American men and women who have served in uniform.

Our veterans have made countless sacrifices, often leaving behind loved ones, careers, and businesses, all in service to protect our nation. Many have made the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty.

In North Carolina, we are proud of our long-standing tradition of military service and our unwavering support for those who have served. As the "Nation's Most Military Friendly State," we are fortunate to have generations of veterans who call our state home. Many of them have not only served our country with honor but continue to contribute to our communities in meaningful ways.

As your member of Congress, I am honored to listen to the insights and suggestions of veterans, which I do through my Veterans Advisory Committee pictured below in addition to meeting and/or corresponding with many other veterans. I listen to them tell their experiences with the Department of Veterans Affairs, and their experiences when transitioning from service, as well as other advice they have to offer. This input helps shape policy in Washington. Below, you will find more details on how Congress is working to help improve the care and well-being of veterans.

To our veterans and their families, on behalf of all the fine citizens of the 7th Congressional District and beyond, I extend our deepest gratitude. We recognize the sacrifices you've made to keep America safe. May God protect and bless you.

If you received this newsletter from a friend, and you would like to continue receiving these updates, you can subscribe here or connect with me on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram.

Improving the Lives of Veterans

More can and should be done to improve the care and lives of our veterans who have so nobly served this country – from improving access to quality healthcare to expanding education and work opportunities.

As a member of Congress, I evaluate every bill related to veteran benefits carefully because I believe our servicemembers and veterans deserve our utmost support for their service to this country, particularly those disabled due to their service. Millions of American veterans live with one or more service-connected disabilities, and the nation must ensure they receive the benefits they deserve because of their service and sacrifice.

I have been and remain committed to working for the veterans of North Carolina’s 7th Congressional District and their families. Ensuring my office provides the proper constituent service to veterans navigating the federal government is extremely important. If I can be of assistance in any way, please contact me. As a country, it is our obligation and duty to honor and help those who served.

Veteran Policy Accomplishments during the 118th Congress

Crafting and supporting legislation needed to better provide for our veterans is crucial because it ensures that those who have served our country receive the support and care they deserve. Public policy should ensure their access to healthcare, education, and job opportunities, promoting their successful reintegration into civilian life.

Additionally, such legislation honors their sacrifices and strengthens the nation by investing in the well-being of those who have protected our country and thereby our freedom. Below are a few examples of the veteran-related policy accomplishments during the 118th Congress. (In some cases, the bills cited were included in other legislation that passed the House.)

The President signed into law House Republicans legislation to fully fund VA to serve America’s veterans (H.R. 4366)
Brought in over 100 VA officials to answer to the veterans and taxpayers they serve
Passed legislation to build on VA’s homelessness partnerships and lift veterans out of homelessness and get them back on track (H.R. 3848)
Passed legislation to expand mental health care access for veteran caregivers (H.R. 3581)
Passed bipartisan legislation to expand tech career opportunities for veterans (H.R. 1669)
Passed legislation which makes modern improvements to the disability exams claims process (H.R. 4461)
Lead bipartisan legislation to remove toxic VA employees who aren’t putting veterans first (H.R. 4278)
Passed legislation to ensure no veteran or their family should be met with payment burdens if they receive emergency care outside of VA (H.R. 815)
Passed legislation to make lifetime improvements to VA’s long-term care programs to allow veterans to live comfortably, where they want to live as they get older (H.R. 542)
Passed legislation to cut down on call wait times so that veterans spend less time stuck on hold (H.R. 6656)
Conducted multiple oversight hearings on improvements necessary for mental health care access for our veterans
Authorized a task force to address the unique needs women veterans face head-on and published report on task force’s findings
Met with transitioning and active-duty servicemembers and their families overseas to hear firsthand the challenges they face when becoming civilians
Continue to hold the Biden-Harris administration and senior VA leaders accountable for the veterans they serve

Resources for Veterans

Veteran and Military Services: If you need assistance dealing with the Department of Veterans Affairs, my office can help. I am happy to assist veterans with obtaining their military records and medals, answer questions about the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, or help those who may be experiencing difficulties with the VA Healthcare System or a claims and appeals process.

Flags: My office can help NC-07 residents purchase an American flag that can be flown over the U.S. Capitol in honor of an individual or to commemorate a special occasion or event, such as a military retirement.

Commendations: I am happy to send congratulatory letters to NC-07 residents in commemoration of special occasions such as military retirements, displays of bravery, scouting awards, recognizing a special event, and more. I am also able to request a Presidential Greeting commemorating a birthday of eighty years or greater, or a wedding anniversary of fifty years or greater.

My staff and I are only a phone call, email, or office visit away. If I can assist you with any of the services listed above, please contact me at (202) 225-2731.

Hurricane Helene Resources

North Carolina is still responding to the catastrophic damage caused by Hurricane Helene, and the need for assistance has never been greater. The North Carolina Department of Public Safety has put together a list of ways you can help and donate. Your support can make a significant difference in the recovery efforts.

Click here for a list of trustworthy organizations.

Closing Thoughts...

"The best way to predict the future is to create it." — Peter Drucker